How Many Sports Bras Are Necessary for You?
How many sports bras should you own? The answer varies based on several lifestyle factors. While you might already have a good sense of how many regular bras to include in your rotation, determining the right number of these specialized undergarments can be less clear.
That's why we're here to explore this frequently asked question in depth with this guide.
How often do you work out?
This is arguably the most important question to ask yourself when determining how many sports bras you need.
Do you typically go to the gym two to three times a week (or even less)? If so, having just two sports bras should be sufficient. We recommend having at least two, as it's important to wash your sports bra after each use. With more than one, you'll have a clean option available while the other is in the laundry.
On the flip side, if you’re someone who works out five or more times a week, you'll need more than just two sports bras. Ideally, you should aim for at least four in your collection to rotate throughout the week.
What types of exercise do you engage in? Some people prefer to focus on a single physical activity they enjoy, such as running or yoga. If that’s the case, you might not need a large number of sports bras (assuming you don’t work out five or more days a week). This is because you’ll likely only require one specific style of bra.
For instance, those who practice yoga may opt for lightweight, wire-free compression sports bras, while runners typically choose super supportive encapsulation bras with separated cups to minimize bounce during their workouts.
However, if your fitness routine includes a variety of activities, you’ll need more sports bras. Different types of exercise require varying levels of support. A low-impact sports bra is suitable for activities like Pilates and strength training, where there is minimal breast movement. These bras often lack padding or underwire, feature narrower shoulder straps, and may or may not have separated cups.
In contrast, a medium-impact sports bra is ideal for activities like power walking, using an elliptical, or hiking, as it provides better control over breast movement. High-impact sports bras are best for exercises such as running, plyometrics, and aerobics, where additional bounce control is essential for breast protection. These bras usually feature wider shoulder straps, supportive underbands, and individual cups, sometimes with underwire or side boning for extra support.
Sports bras should be washed after each use, not only for hygiene reasons, but also to extend their lifespan. If sweat is trapped in a bra, it can damage the elastic fibers and other materials that give it shape and support. Therefore, the frequency of laundry is an important factor in deciding how many sports bras you need. If you do laundry every day and only work out a few times a week, then owning two sports bras is enough.
If you've been struggling to find the right bra size, it's time to make a change. Visit our boltoo to find the bra that's right for you.